Registered Political Party - Project Open Gov

A political party registered to use a party name or description on ballot papers.

Also used as: registered party, political party, political parties, party registration

Official website: Search the register of political parties

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

A registered political party is a party that has been registered for electoral purposes, allowing it to use approved names, descriptions and emblems on ballot papers. Registration helps distinguish party candidates from independent candidates and supports the regulation of political finance and campaign rules.

Related terms

Ballot PaperThe paper on which a voter marks their choice in an election.CandidateA person standing for election to public office.Electoral CommissionThe independent body overseeing elections and regulating political finance in the UK.Independent CandidateA candidate standing for election without a registered political party label.